Miami Waterkeeper is one of the few environmental organizations in Miami that is willing to use one of the most powerful tools at our disposal to protect our Bay — the law.

Water is important to Miami’s culture, environment, and economy. Biscayne Bay contributes over $12 billion in economic input to Miami-Dade County, with recreation alone contributing almost $4 billion. But, Miami’s unique waterways are at risk from a myriad of threats.

Did you know that citizens can sue polluters in court? Legal action taken by a small, local non-profit empowers citizens to protect precious resources. Using State and Federal laws, Miami Waterkeeper and our community allies can stand up to any person or organization, no matter how big, powerful, or well-funded, who might seek to harm our Bay or its surrounding waters.

» Legal expenses (e.g. depositions, filing fees, experts, & discovery)

» Miami Waterkeeper staff attorney position

» Staff research, data gathering, and advocacy supporting litigation goals

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Miami Waterkeeper has discovered an ignored outfall sewage leak, affecting our oceans, wildlife, and the health and safety of the public. This reported sewage leak, occurring approximately 3/4 mile offshore -- just a stone’s throw away from Fisher Island and Key Biscayne, is coming from the Virginia Key treatment plant. In response, today the non-profit organization has filed its second notice of intent to sue Miami-Dade County for violations of the Clean Water Act related to the County’s aging and neglected sewage infrastructure. Miami Waterkeeper claims the County is in violation of the Act and several state statutes, regulations, and permits as Miami-Dade County officials were aware of sewage leaking near Key Biscayne for over a year, but took no action to address it. Despite a mandate to maintain these outfalls, further investigation reveals the County has not inspected them for nearly a decade. 

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